330 



The Country House 



column of water of any height, multiply the height in feet by .43. To find the 

 head, multiply the pressure in pounds per square inch by 2.31. 



Water Pipes. Often obstructions occur in the service pipe of so slight a 

 nature that they may be easily remedied by the owner. To tell whether the service 

 pipe is leaking or partially clogged, where the water does not flow as freely as it 

 ought, close all the faucets except one and place the thumb over the opening 

 before turning on the water at this point. Take* note at the start how much 

 pressure is required to keep the water in the faucet. If the pipe is but partially 

 clogged the pressure will increase as the pipes become full, and frequently the 

 pressure becomes so strong that the thumb cannot hold it. Should there be 

 a leak the pressure will remain practically the same. The presence of small fish 

 may easily be detected by taste or smell. 



To clear the obstruction, water should be pumped into the service pipe by 

 means of a strong force pump. If this be not effective, the obstruction is very 

 likely of a soft and slimy nature, and vibration must be employed to loosen it. This 

 is effected by opening and closing some stop cock on a line of the public service 

 very quickly; in the same manner open and shut some other faucet in the cellar. 

 It is essential that the water be fairly started before it is checked. This OJH larioii, 

 repeated at short intervals, causes a vibration in the pipe, which tends to loosen 

 the obstruction. 



When a leak occurs in the water pipe, shut off the water at once. This is easy 

 enough, but everyone in the house should understand this, and how to do it in case 

 of emergency. 



The roaring sound from*running water in pipes is caused by their being 

 secured to the house frame in such a manner as to vibrate and jar the entire- 

 framework, which acts as a sounding board. If a layer of thick felt is laid 

 between the pipes and its support this vibration will be deadened. 



Water Tower. A miniature water tower can be made from a Unurh ot 

 ordinary hose attached to a long piece of 2" x 3" spruce scantling. Tin n<>//k- 

 should be turned at right angles to the scantling at its top, and a shut-off may In- 

 provided near the bottom. This device can be easily handled, and may be of 

 considerable service in a locality where the fire department is not efficient. 





Section of an elliptical arched bridge, showing stone construction on the 

 left side and brick on the right side 



